But I was very disappointed that I didn't get a chance to go overseas with that group, might not have gotten back but I wanted very much to go because there's not much of a record of the exploits of the first Negro fighter group.

In this quote, Gordon Parks, an acclaimed photographer and filmmaker, expresses his disappointment at not being able to go overseas with the first Negro fighter group during World War II. This group, which was part of the U.S. Army Air Corps, became known for their pioneering role as African-American pilots. Parks, who was deeply involved in documenting significant moments in African-American history, wanted the opportunity to capture and tell the story of these brave men, recognizing that there was little record of their contributions.

Parks highlights the historical significance of this group and the lack of documentation surrounding their efforts. He acknowledges that their role in the war was often overlooked or underappreciated in mainstream historical accounts. Parks’ desire to go overseas with the group reflects his dedication to bringing attention to these unsung heroes and ensuring their legacy was recorded for future generations.

The mention of not having much of a record of the group’s exploits suggests a sense of urgency and frustration for Parks. As a documentarian, he was keenly aware of how important it was to preserve the stories of marginalized communities, particularly African-Americans, who were often left out of mainstream narratives. His disappointment also reflects the broader struggle for representation in historical records.

Ultimately, Parks' quote emphasizes his passion for storytelling and his commitment to documenting African-American history, especially moments that had been neglected or forgotten. It also underscores the historical erasure faced by African-Americans in the military and the need for their contributions to be recognized and celebrated.